Scientist of the Month: Dr. Mae Carol Jemison

Our scientist of the month is someone who has broken barriers and achieved incredible feats in her career. Dr. Mae Carol Jemison is the first African American woman to travel into space, and her journey is one that has inspired many. From her early interest in space to her work with NASA and beyond, Dr. Jemison is an example of a lifelong learner who never gave up on her dreams. And it’s fitting to celebrate her successes on National Astronaut Day.

Dr. Jemison was born in Alabama in 1956, but grew up in Chicago. She was interested in space and astronomy from a young age, and even dreamed of becoming an astronaut. She studied chemical engineering at Stanford University and later received her medical degree from Cornell University. After completing her education, Dr. Jemison worked as a general practitioner in Los Angeles before joining the Peace Corps in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Upon her return to the United States, Dr. Jemison joined NASA and became an astronaut in 1987. In 1992, she achieved her dream of traveling into space on the space shuttle Endeavor. This historic moment made Dr. Jemison the first African American woman and the first woman of color to travel into space. Dr. Jemison’s journey into space inspired many, and she received numerous awards and honors for her accomplishments.

But Dr. Jemison’s work didn’t stop there. After leaving NASA, she worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and later started her own educational non-profit, The Jemison Group. She has also appeared on an episode of Star Trek and inspired many children’s books about her life.

Dr. Jemison’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to never stop learning. She is an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve their dreams, no matter how big or small. Dr. Jemison’s accomplishments in space and beyond are a reminder of the endless possibilities that come with hard work and determination.

Learn more about Dr. Mae Jemison’s journey: